CNMI’s Moot Court Teams Give Strong Performance at Georgetown Regional

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Saipan, CNMI – Two moot court teams represented the Commonwealth in the National Association of Moot Court tournament in Washington, D.C. on March 21-22. The teams were comprised of four Marianas High School students: Ricky Tang, Steven Lian, Montrey Germance, and Ainsley Ancheta.

Ainsley Ancheta and Montrey Germance receive their Octo-finalist award

Ricky Tang and Steven Lian were the 2025 CNMI Supreme Court Moot Court Champions, while Montrey Germance and Ainsley Ancheta earned second place. Their strong performance at the local level qualified both teams to compete in the regional tournament hosted by the Georgetown University Moot Court Team.

Both CNMI teams advanced to the octo‑finals, placing among the top sixteen of twenty‑six participating teams. The students were coached by MHS attorney‑coach Steven Woodruff and CNMI Supreme Court law clerk Chandler Farquhar.

Steven Lian and Ricky Tang receive their Octo-finalist award.

“The students put in an incredible amount of effort, and judges frequently commented on the depth of their understanding of the materials,” said Farquhar. “Their hard work paid off, and we’re extremely proud of them.”

(From left): Attorney-coach Steven Woodruff, Ricky Tang, Steven Lian, Montrey Germance, Ainsley Ancheta, Law Clerk Chandler Farquhar, and Chaperone Darlene Aldan.

The students and coaches exploring Washington D.C.’s many historic landmarks and museums.

2026-PR-014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 27, 2026

This press release has been prepared by court staff for the convenience of the public. For further information, contact the Supreme Court at Supreme.Court@NMIJudiciary.gov